Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak with Onions
This quick and flavorful Chinese Pepper Steak combines tender marinated beef with crisp bell peppers and onions in a rich, savory sauce. A perfect weeknight stir-fry that rivals takeout.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin – sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 tbsp cornstarch – for velveting the beef
- 2 tbsp + 1/4 cup soy sauce – divided between marinade and sauce
- 1 large onion – sliced into thin wedges
- 1 red bell pepper – sliced into 1/4-inch strips
- 1 green bell pepper – sliced into 1/4-inch strips
- 2 tbsp sesame oil – divided
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger – minced
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp sesame seeds – optional garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions – optional garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, combine sliced beef with 2 tbsp soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and water. Set aside.
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Slice onion and bell peppers. Mince garlic and ginger.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a hot wok or large skillet. Sear beef in a single layer for 1 minute without stirring, then stir-fry until browned (2-3 minutes total). Remove beef to a plate.
- Stir-Fry Veggies:
- Add remaining sesame oil. Sauté onions for 1 minute, then add peppers, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until crisp-tender (2-3 minutes).
- Combine and Finish:
- Return beef and juices to the wok. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats ingredients.
- Serve:
- Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Notes
Velveting the beef (with cornstarch and soy sauce) is essential for that restaurant-style tenderness. For a spicier version, add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Substitute tamari and gluten-free sauces for a gluten-free version. To meal prep, store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating.
